Laura M. Miele, Ph.D., Sport, Fitness, and Recreation Expert

Case Summary: An adult woman (Plaintiff) was injured while roller skating with her child at an indoor rink. Plaintiff was preparing to exit the rink when she saw that her path was blocked by a man and woman who were on their phones socializing while standing inside of the rink. Plaintiff tried moving over to her left to avoid the two patrons; however, a limited space remained between Plaintiff and her child. She tried to go into the gap, tripped, and fell. Subsequently, Plaintiff dislocated her ankle and fibula.

Expert Analysis: It is common for patrons at skating rinks to hang along the railings and socialize; however, roller skating facilities have a duty to provide a reasonably safe environment. This duty ensures that all patrons entering the facility can safely move about without obstruction or hazards.

If a hazard exists, it should be immediately remedied, warned against, or mitigated. Therefore, it is imperative that facilities ensure clearance along the perimeter of the skating areas.

Result: Case settled.

Laura M. Miele, Ph.D., Sport, Fitness, and Recreation Expert with DJS Associates, Inc., can be reached via email at experts@forensicDJS.com or via phone at 215-659-2010.

Categories: Case Studies | Recreation

Tags: Hazardous Conditions | Personal Injury | Roller Skating